Shakawath Hossain recognised as ‘Tourism Face of South Asia’ 

Md Shakawath Hossain, chief executive officer of Unique Hotel & Resorts PLC (the owning company of The Westin Dhaka, Sheraton Dhaka, and HANSA Premium Residence) has been honoured with the Tourism Face of South Asia Award at the prestigious 8th Edition of the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2024. 

The award ceremony took place on 20th September 2024 at Aloft Kathmandu, Nepal, recognising leaders across the region for their exceptional contributions to the growth and development of the South Asian tourism industry. 

The Coin Award was handed over by Badri Prasad Pandey, minister of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation.

With a career spanning over 20 years, Shakawath Hossain has been a driving force in shaping the hospitality industry in Bangladesh. He is the only Bangladeshi Hotelier who is an industry practitioner, academician, and researcher who is pursuing a PhD in Tourism & Hospitality Management at the University of Dhaka and has been recognised with multiple National & International awards. 

He is also the only Hotelier in Bangladesh who has started his career at scratch level, worked in different leadership capacities with Starwood International & Marriott International and now as a CEO of Unique Hotel & Resorts PLC, he looks after The Westin Dhaka, Sheraton Dhaka, and HANSA Premium Residence.

Md Shakawath Hossain’s leadership has been instrumental in elevating Bangladesh’s hospitality and tourism sector, driving significant growth through his innovative strategies and commitment to excellence. Under his stewardship, Unique Hotel & Resorts PLC has solidified its position as a leader in the South Asian hospitality scene, with The Westin Dhaka, Sheraton Dhaka, and HANSA Premium Residence setting new benchmarks for luxury, customer service, and sustainability in the region.

The Tourism Face of South Asia Award is one of the highest accolades at the South Asian Travel Awards, highlighting individuals who have not only contributed to their own country’s tourism sector but also made a significant impact across the entire South Asian region. This recognition further cements Shakawath’s legacy as a visionary leader in hospitality.

Commenting on his achievement, Md Shakawath Hossain said — “I am deeply honoured to receive this prestigious recognition. This award is a testament to the trust and support that I have received from our Chairperson, Salina Ali, Managing Director,  Mohd Noor Ali and the Board of Directors. Also, I would like to appreciate the collective efforts of my dedicated team and the continuous support from our partners, stakeholders, and the hospitality industry in Bangladesh. I remain committed to further innovating our country’s tourism potential and contributing towards creating an inclusive environment in the South Asian Hospitality & Tourism Market.”

The South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) has been recognising the best of South Asia’s hospitality and travel industry since 2016. The prestigious annual event honours stellar organisations and industry professionals in a wide array of categories, highlighting their contributions to the growth and promotion of tourism in South Asia.

This achievement reflects not only Md Shakawath Hossain’s dedication to excellence but also underscores Bangladesh’s growing prominence as a key player in the regional hospitality and tourism industry.

About Unique Hotel & Resorts PLC
Unique Hotel & Resorts PLC is a leading hospitality company in Bangladesh, owning and operating some of the country’s most prestigious luxury properties, including The Westin Dhaka, Sheraton Dhaka, and HANSA – A Premium Residence. The company is committed to delivering world-class hospitality experiences while contributing to the growth of the Hospitality & Tourism Industry in Bangladesh.

About the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA)
The South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) is the region’s most celebrated tourism and hospitality event, recognising and honouring the best in the industry from South Asia. Since its inception, SATA has set the standard for excellence in travel, tourism, and hospitality within the South Asian region.